How Much Does a Trip to New York Cost in 2025?

There’s no place like New York. It’s busy, loud, and full of surprises — and that includes the prices. Whether you’re coming for a weekend or a full week, knowing what things really cost makes the trip smoother (and your wallet happier).
Here’s what you can expect to spend in 2025 — from a morning coffee in Manhattan to a Broadway show at night — plus a few tips to keep your budget in check without missing out on the fun.

Overview of Typical Daily Costs in New York (2025)

Category	Average Cost (p.p, per day)	What’s Included / Notes
Accommodation	🏨 $280 – $380	Mid-range Manhattan hotels average around $310 before taxes and fees; cheaper in Queens or Brooklyn.
Food & Drinks	🍕 $50 – $120	Breakfast coffee, lunch on-the-go, and one sit-down dinner; add more for wine or cocktails.
Transportation	🚇 $6 – $15	Unlimited subway/bus after $34 fare-cap per week; taxis and Ubers cost extra.
Attractions & Activities	🎟️ $0 – $80	Mix of free sights + one paid experience (deck, museum, show). Passes can lower costs.
Internet & SIM Card	📱 $4 – $10	eSIMs like Airalo or Saily for 3–5 GB; free public Wi-Fi in many areas.
Travel Insurance	🧾 4–10 % of trip cost	Comprehensive policy covering health + cancellations.
Extras / Tips / Taxes	💰 +15–20 %	Restaurant tips, hotel fees, and NYC sales tax (8.875 %).

Costs of Getting to NYC (Flights)

Flights are often the biggest wild card in your budget. Airfares swing with season, route demand, fuel costs, and airline pricing strategies. Here’s a clearer picture of what to expect in 2025 — and how to get a better deal.

What Airfare Looks Like in 2025

Bottom line: For many U.S. domestic routes you might find round-trip fares in the $300–$500 range (economy), depending on distance and competition. International flights from Europe or Asia will often run higher (e.g. $700–$1,200+) depending on season and carrier.

Smart Booking Tips

Costs of Airport Transfers in New York

Getting from the airport into Manhattan is one of the first “real” costs you’ll hit — and it sets the tone for your trip.

Whether you’re rolling in after an overnight flight or stepping out into the city’s buzz mid-day, knowing how much to budget (and how to choose smartly) makes a big difference.

Below are typical options and the fares you should expect in 2025.

Book a shuttle bus to/from Newark Airport online

Costs of Public Transportation in New York

New York’s public transit system is the easiest and cheapest way to get around once you’re in the city.

The subway runs 24 hours a day, covers all five boroughs, and connects almost every major attraction you’ll want to see. Buses fill in the gaps and come in handy for short trips when you don’t feel like walking.

With the newer OMNY contactless system, paying for rides is much simpler — just tap your phone or card at the turnstile, and you’re good to go.

Smart play: Use contactless (OMNY) so fare-capping happens automatically—no need to pre-commit to a pass. OMNY accepts contactless credit or debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and smart devices like Apple Watch.

Just hold your phone or card over the reader until you see the green check. You don’t need to unlock your phone — Apple Pay Express Transit works automatically on iPhone and Apple Watch

Costs of Accommodation in New York

Finding a place to stay in New York is usually the biggest piece of your budget puzzle.

Hotel prices shift a lot depending on the season, neighborhood, and even the day of the week — Friday and Saturday nights can cost far more than a quiet Tuesday in February.

In 2025, rates remain high thanks to strong demand and limited new hotel openings, but there are still ways to find good value if you know where to look.

Money saver: Consider Queens, Brooklyn, or Jersey City for better rates with quick subway/PATH access.

Costs of Food in New York

If there’s one thing New York never disappoints in, it’s food. You can spend $5 on a slice that tastes better than a fancy meal, or sit down for dinner with skyline views and leave your wallet a little lighter.

The city has it all — food trucks, bagel carts, hole-in-the-wall spots, and restaurants where getting a table feels like winning the lottery. Prices can add up fast, but with a bit of planning you can eat really well here without blowing your budget.

Here’s what food and drinks actually cost in 2025, from quick bites to cocktails.

Tipping norms: Restaurants 18–20% (15% for so-so service; 20%+ for great). Bellhops $1–$2/bag, housekeeping $2–$5/night.

Costs of Drinks & Nightlife in New York

When the sun goes down, New York comes alive. From classic dive bars and rooftop lounges to cocktail speakeasies tucked behind hidden doors, the city’s nightlife has something for every taste — and budget.

Drinks aren’t cheap, especially in Midtown or trendy Manhattan bars, but there are plenty of happy hours and neighborhood spots where you can enjoy a good drink without spending a fortune. Here’s what to expect in 2025.

Costs of Internet in New York

Staying connected in New York is easier than ever — and you don’t need to hunt for Wi-Fi like it’s 2010.

Free hotspots are scattered all over the city, from parks to subway stations, and most cafés won’t mind you hopping on their network while you grab a coffee. Still, having your own data plan makes life simpler when you’re using maps, ordering Ubers, or posting from the middle of Times Square.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in 2025 for internet and mobile data during your stay.

Tip: If your hotel charges a “destination fee,” it usually includes Wi-Fi—but compare that fee to a cheap eSIM; the eSIM can be better value (and faster). And if you’re looking to save on mobile data, read our reviews for the best eSIM options for New York — they can help you stay connected without roaming charges.

Costs for Activities in New York

There’s always something to do in New York — the challenge is deciding what not to do.

Whether it’s watching the city light up from an observation deck, catching a Broadway show, or walking across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset, every experience comes with its own price tag. Some things are free and unforgettable, others are worth splurging on at least once.

Observation decks

Broadway & shows

Attraction passes (good for “museum+views” days)

Free & nearly-free: Central Park, the High Line, Staten Island Ferry (skyline views), major neighborhoods, many museums with suggested admission or free evenings.

Costs You Might Forget (But Shouldn’t)

Even if you plan your New York budget down to the last dollar, there are always a few sneaky extras that catch travelers off guard.

It’s not that the city hides fees on purpose — it’s just that small add-ons like taxes, surcharges, and hotel “amenity” fees pile up faster than you expect. Before you swipe your card, it’s good to know what those hidden costs look like so you can keep your budget realistic (and your mood intact).

Costs of Tipping in New York

Tipping in New York can feel confusing if you’re not used to it, but it’s simply part of daily life here.

Servers, bartenders, and hotel staff rely on tips as a major part of their income, so skipping it isn’t just rude — it’s almost unheard of. The good news is that once you get the hang of the usual percentages, it becomes second nature.

Here’s what’s considered normal around the city in 2025, from restaurants to hotels.

Costs of Travel Insurance & Health Care Considerations

It’s easy to skip over travel insurance when planning a trip — until something goes wrong. In the U.S., medical care can be extremely expensive, and even a simple visit to an urgent care clinic can cost hundreds of dollars without coverage.

Travel insurance isn’t just about lost luggage or flight delays; it’s your safety net if you get sick, injured, or need to change plans unexpectedly.

Here’s what you should know about insurance costs and why it’s worth adding to your NYC budget.

If you want peace of mind, it’s worth the extra cost. Think of it as one small expense that protects every other part of your trip.

Example 4-Day Spend (per person, realistic mid-range)

Ballpark total: ~$1,600–$1,800 for a comfortable long-weekend excluding flights (can be trimmed by choosing outer-borough hotels, skipping taxis, and leveraging free sights).

Smart Ways to Keep NYC Costs Down

New York can drain your wallet faster than you expect, but it doesn’t have to.

Locals know that small choices — how you get around, where you eat, and when you book tickets — can make a big difference. With a few smart moves, you can save a lot without cutting out the fun stuff.

Here are some simple ways to stretch your budget and still enjoy everything that makes the city amazing.

❓Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York City really that expensive?
It depends on how you travel. Hotels and attractions can add up fast, but there are free things to do everywhere — like Central Park, the High Line, and the Staten Island Ferry. With a mix of budget-friendly meals, subway rides, and smart planning, you can experience New York without overspending.

How much money do I need per day in New York?
A realistic daily budget in 2025 is around $150–$250 per person, covering food, transport, and a mix of free and paid attractions. Add more if you’re staying in Manhattan hotels or planning to see Broadway shows.

What’s the cheapest way to get around New York?
The subway is still king. One ride costs $2.90, and once you spend $34 in a week, the OMNY system automatically gives you unlimited rides until Sunday. Walking is free — and half the fun.

Can I use my phone or card to pay for the subway?
Yes. You can tap your iPhone, Apple Watch, or contactless card at the turnstile — no MetroCard needed. Each person needs their own payment method, but you can also use a 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard if you’re traveling as a group.

When is the cheapest time to visit New York?
You’ll usually find lower hotel prices and flight deals in January, February, and early March. Late summer (August) can also be slightly cheaper. December holidays and early fall are the most expensive times.

How much do observation decks cost?
Expect around $40–$60 for standard adult tickets at places like the Empire State Building, Edge, or Top of the Rock. Sunset or VIP experiences cost more, but you can often save with attraction passes.

Do I need travel insurance for a trip to New York?
It’s highly recommended — medical care in the U.S. is expensive. A travel insurance plan usually costs 4–10% of your trip value, and it protects you from medical bills, delays, or cancellations.

How can I save money on data and roaming?
Buy an eSIM before you land. It’s cheaper than roaming and works instantly. Read our eSIM reviews for New York to see which plan fits your trip best.

What’s a normal tip in New York?
In 2025, the standard tip is 18–20% in restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and $2–5 for hotel staff or bellhops. It’s expected, not optional.

Is cash still necessary in NYC?
Most places take cards and mobile payments, but it’s smart to carry $20–$40 in small bills for street food vendors, tips, or older subway machines that may not take cards.

Final Thoughts

New York can feel expensive at first glance, but once you understand how the city works — and where your money actually goes — it becomes much easier to plan smart.

You don’t need a five-star budget to have a five-star trip. Walk as much as you can, grab a slice from a corner pizza shop, take in the skyline from the ferry instead of a pricey tour, and mix the must-see attractions with the simple everyday moments that make the city unforgettable.

If this guide helped you plan your budget, share it with a friend or fellow traveler who’s dreaming of NYC too. And don’t forget to check out our eSIM reviews and join our Facebook group “New York City Tourist Tips & Tricks” — it’s where we share the latest guides, deals, and insider tips straight from people who know the city best.